Railways

Over 150 heritage railways in the UK for a great family Railday out!

  • All
  • Funicular / Cliff Railway
  • Standard Gauge Railway
  • Narrow Gauge Railway (15"+)
  • Museum
  • Miniature Railway (<15")
  • Heritage Centre (all one site)
  • Heritage Tramway
  • Other
North Weald & District Miniature Railway

North Weald & District Miniature Railway

Harlow, Essex,

Maintained and operated by volunteers, meaning we are totally separate to the garden centre. We operate a variety of trains including both steam and diesel electric and petrol hauled services all year on selected days and then Special Events including Christmas Specials in December. The Railway is located at the Harlow Garden Centre on junction 7 of the M11 motorway. Construction of the line began in Spring 2019 and the first trains ran in September 2019. And since then its been extended to the nearly mile long run that it is now, all of which all is thanks to our customers that we have carried since we opened, this has allowed us to do this and constantly improve!

Location
Harlow Garden Centre, Canes Lane, Harlow, Essex, CM17 9LD, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Miniature Railway (<15")
North Yorkshire Moors Railway

North Yorkshire Moors Railway

Pickering, North Yorkshire,

Enjoy a day out on one of the world's leading heritage railways. The North Yorkshire Moors Railway offers a 24 mile journey through stunning Yorkshire scenery aboard steam or vintage diesel trains. With historic stations, family activities, and unforgettable views, it is a railway adventure like no other.

Location
12 Park Street, Pickering, North Yorkshire, YO18 7AJ, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Standard Gauge Railway
Phone
01751 473 799
Northampton & Lamport Railway

Northampton & Lamport Railway

Chapel Brampton, Northampton,

The Northampton and Lamport Railway operates along part of the former line between Northampton and Market Harborough, now brought back to life by dedicated volunteers. From Pitsford and Brampton Station, visitors can enjoy a relaxed trip behind restored steam and heritage diesel locomotives, taking in peaceful views of the surrounding countryside. The railway hosts a range of family-friendly and enthusiast events throughout the year, along with a welcoming atmosphere for anyone interested in railways, heritage and local history. It is an ideal place to spend an enjoyable day out discovering how railways once served this part of Northamptonshire.

Location
Pitsford & Brampton Station, Pitsford Road, Chapel Brampton, Northampton, NN6 8BA, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Standard Gauge Railway
Phone
01604 820 327
Northamptonshire Ironstone Railway

Northamptonshire Ironstone Railway

Northampton, Northamptonshire,

The Northamptonshire Ironstone Railway Trust is based within the grounds of the Hunsbury Hill Country Park which is located at Hunsbury Hill, Southwest of Northampton. The Trust has a small museum and café, workshop and of course its gardens. It features a 1.5 mile long Heritage Railway line that runs through the park of which a small section has been approved for public use. The line is mainly dedicated to freight working, featuring many sharp curves and steep gradients which were typical of the Industrial Railway. Rides are available in a variety of vehicles including a converted brake van.

Location
Hunsbury Hill Road, Camp Hill, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN4 9UW, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Standard Gauge Railway
Phone
01604 702 031
Old Kiln Light Railway

Old Kiln Light Railway

Farnham, Surrey,

Hop aboard the charming narrow gauge railway in the rural Surrey countryside. Situated in the Rural Life Living Museum, a peaceful, Open Air, Village museum, bordering RSPB Heathland; the Old kiln railway takes you on short but characterful journey, behind one of the many preserved locomotives from all walks of life. From the forests of Portugal, to the Welsh Slate Quarries of Penrhyn, our fine collection of preserved locomotives and stock provides an abundance of railway history to discover and enjoy.

Location
Rural Life Living Museum, Reeds Road, Tilford, Farnham, Surrey, GU10 2DL, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Narrow Gauge Railway (15"+)
Pallot Steam, Motor & General Museum

Pallot Steam, Motor & General Museum

Trinity,

The Museum is managed by a Trust which was set up in 1985 by the Museum's founder, the late Lyndon Charles Pallot, a well loved and respected Jersey character more commonly known as ‘Don'. The L C Pallot Trust was established with the object of promoting the permanent preservation of steam engines, farm machinery, vehicles and much more, the Trustees are Don's surviving sons and daughters.

Location
Rue de Bechet, Trinity, JE3 5BE, JE
Distance
Railway Type
Heritage Centre (all one site)
Phone
01534 865307
Peak Rail

Peak Rail

Matlock, Derbyshire,

Whether it’s simply a nostalgic journey back to a bygone age or a discovery of the sights and sounds for very first time of a steam or diesel locomotive Peak Rail welcomes you to experience the thrill of our preserved railway whilst travelling through the delightful Derbyshire countryside. As well as our normal train journeys, there is something for everyone to enjoy, luxury dining is available on our Palatine Restaurant Car which offers Sunday Lunches, Christmas Lunches, Afternoon or Cream Teas and operates on various days during the year. A whole host of various special events take place throughout the year perfect for all the family or enthusiast.

Location
Matlock Station, Matlock, Derbyshire, DE4 3NA, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Standard Gauge Railway
Phone
01629 580 381
Perrygrove Railway

Perrygrove Railway

Coleford, Gloucestershire,

Perrygrove Railway Adventure has plenty to offer all year round. A return journey takes 30 minutes. Passengers may alight at the various stations on the way in order to enjoy exciting play areas and woodland walks. We are proud to be a dog friendly, family run attraction. Our narrow gauge railway meanders through the woods and meadows of Perrygrove on a ¾ mile journey. We run both steam and diesel engines. Trains run frequently throughout the day and you can ride as many times as you like.

Location
Perrygrove Road, Coleford, Gloucestershire, GL16 8QB, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Narrow Gauge Railway (15"+)
Phone
01594 834 991
Plym Valley Railway

Plym Valley Railway

Plymouth, Devon,

The Plym Valley Railway was founded in 1980 with an aim of restoring part of the ex-Great Western branch line from Plymouth to Tavistock that was closed in 1962. The first milestone, Marsh Mills to World’s End, was complete in September 2001. The second milestone, Marsh Mills to Lee Moor Crossing was opened in May 2008 which allowed passengers to ride 3/4 mile of track along the Plym Valley.

Location
Coypool Road, Marsh Mills, Plympton, Plymouth, Devon, PL7 4NW, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Standard Gauge Railway
Phone
01752 345 078
Pontypool & Blaenavon Railway

Pontypool & Blaenavon Railway

Blaenavon, Torfaen,

Blaenavon's Heritage Railway is set in the heart of a World Heritage Site on the edge of the Brecon Beacons. There is ample free car and coach parking at our main station, Furnace Sidings, located close to the Garn Lakes. From here our trains head north to the Whistle Inn public house and south to Blaenavon High Level Station, the latter a short walk from the town centre. In addition, we also operate a short branch to the Big Pit mining museum. Whether you're looking for a family day out or you are a devoted railway enthusiast, we have something for you!

Location
33 Broad Street, Blaenavon, Torfaen, NP4 9NF, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Standard Gauge Railway
Phone
01495 792 263
Railway Preservation Society of Ireland

Railway Preservation Society of Ireland

Whitehead, Co. Antrim,

Our fascinating five gallery museum allows you to rub shoulders with the giants of steam. You can step on the footplate of a 140 year old engine, get on board a 1950s carriage from the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland’s collection and see our restoration workshops, where these historic vehicles are brought back to life. You can explore the museum at your leisure, aided along the way by our wonderful guides who will be on hand to help with any questions. They have a rich knowledge of Irish railway heritage - some have been part of the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland for over 50 years!

Location
Whitehead Railway Museum, Castleview Road, Whitehead, Co. Antrim, BT38 9NA, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Museum
Phone
028 9358 6200
Railworld Wildlife Haven

Railworld Wildlife Haven

Peterborough, Cambridgeshire,

Volunteers with the help of many companies, groups and individuals have transformed the derelict coal yard into an inner-city green space, a landscaped haven with ponds and waterfalls, creating increased biodiversity and habitat for our wildlife... plus restored and repurposed Victorian aqueducts and bridges in true 'Circular Economy' style! Over 30 years - Volunteers have also created the ‘Globe Hall Earth Centre’ with a solar powered ‘World’ – Plus over 2,000 sqft of intriguing, exciting model railways!

Location
Oundle Road, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, PE2 9NR, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Other
Phone
01733 344 240
Rainsbrook Valley Railway

Rainsbrook Valley Railway

Rugby, Warwickshire,

Public running dates for Rainsbrook Valley Railway in 2023 are: 5th April,16th April, 21st May, 31st May, 18th June, 16th July, 20th August, 30th August, 17th September, 15th October and 1st November. There will be 2 sessions on Sundays 11-1 then 2-4.

Location
Rainsbrook Valley Railway, Onley Lane, Rugby, Warwickshire, CV22 5QD, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Miniature Railway (<15")
Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway

Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway

Ravenglass, Cumbria,

Climb aboard one of the Lake District’s best-loved attractions. The Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway offers a steam-hauled journey through seven miles of spectacular scenery. Trains run from the seaside village of Ravenglass to Dalegarth in the heart of Eskdale, passing rivers, ancient woodlands, and rugged fells. At the journey's end, towering peaks such as Scafell and Harter Fell provide a dramatic backdrop. Nearby, visitors can enjoy traditional pubs, riverside walks, and mountain trails. Most trains are steam-hauled, providing a nostalgic experience for all ages. The railway's impressive fleet includes River Irt, the world's oldest working 15-inch gauge steam locomotive, and River Mite, a pioneering new-build from the early days of railway preservation. The story of the line begins in 1875, when it opened as a 3-foot gauge mineral railway. It was converted to 15-inch gauge in 1915 and became one of Britain's first preserved narrow-gauge railways. Today, it continues to delight visitors with its charm, history, and breathtaking setting.

Location
CA18 1SW, Ravenglass Station, Ravenglass, Ravenglass, Cumbria, CA18 1SW, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Narrow Gauge Railway (15"+)
Phone
01229 717 171
Rhyl Miniature Railway

Rhyl Miniature Railway

Rhyl,

Our steam trains were built in Rhyl during the 1920s, and so have been hauling passengers around Marine Lake for the last eighty years! Even our first train from 1911 recently returned to us after over 90 years away! Upon returning to ‘Central Station’, find out more about our story in our museum, where there are hands on exhibits to amuse the younger ones. Our ticket office sells tea and coffee, confectionery and a good range of children’s gifts. The station, museum and toilets are open on every day that trains are operating. We have good facilities for disabled visitors. The railway is located at Marine Lake, only a short walk from the new iconic pedestrian bridge Pont y Ddraig.

Location
Central Station, Marine Lake, Wellington Road, Rhyl, LL18 1AQ, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Miniature Railway (<15")
Phone
01352 759109
Ribble Steam Railway & Museum

Ribble Steam Railway & Museum

Preston, Lancashire,

Whatever the weather, you can expect a warm and friendly welcome from Ribble Steam's team of committed volunteers. Whether you are a keen steam enthusiast or just simply looking for a fun and relaxed day out, Ribble Steam offers a memorable experience of Lancashire's world-famous industrial heritage. Visit the museum, discover the history of Preston docks, and the story of the first electric trains. There is much to explore in the hands-on museum, which houses one of the UK's largest collections of Industrial Railway Heritage. Watch industrial engines and locomotives lovingly being restored behind the scenes. Remember to check out the RSR shop to find that special visit memento, present, specialist publication or popular railway character memorabilia. Look out for art activities, special events such as Steam or Diesel Galas and exhibitions, Friendly Engines, Family Fun on our Teddy Bears' Specials, Classic Car Day on Father's Day, Model Tramways Weekend and our Fabulous Santa Specials.

Location
Chain Caul Road, Riversway Docklands, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 2PD, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Standard Gauge Railway
Phone
01772 728 800
Rocks By Rail

Rocks By Rail

Cottesmore, Rutland,

Rocks by Rail is an outdoor adventure, cast in an ironstone quarry. Covering 19 acres of reclaimed quarry, railway tracks and nature trails, Rocks By Rail is a journey back in time. It’s an unmissable opportunity to experience an awesome industrial landscape. Explore fascinating nature trails. Take a train trip. Drive a classic loco. Tour the workshop and loco yard. View the ironstone exhibition and learn about its importance throughout history. Then sit back with a cuppa in a 1960s style café, or browse the Museum shop. Rocks By Rail is a big value day out. Whether you’re a family seeking informative fun, a rail and digger enthusiast, or a teacher looking for ways to bring lessons to life – you’ll find the living ironstone museum so involving you’ll wonder where the hours went!

Location
Ashwell Road, Cottesmore, Rutland, LE15 7FF, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Heritage Centre (all one site)
Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway

Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway

New Romney, Kent,

Celebrated as Kent's Main Line in Miniature, the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway is world famous for its fleet of one-third full-size steam and diesel locomotives. Covering 13.5 miles of track from the Cinque Port town of Hythe to the shingle headland of Dungeness, the line passes through some of the county's most distinctive scenery. With four intermediate stations, each within easy reach of the beach, visitors can enjoy a unique way to explore this beautiful corner of Kent. Discover coast and countryside walks, cycle trails, medieval churches and the iconic Dungeness lighthouses along the way. Excellent catering, a model railway exhibition, play parks, shops, free parking and accessible facilities all add to a memorable day out for all ages.

Location
New Romney Station, Littlestone Road, New Romney, Kent, TN28 8PL, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Narrow Gauge Railway (15"+)
Phone
01797 364 062
Romsey Signal Box Working Museum

Romsey Signal Box Working Museum

Romsey, Hampshire,

Romsey Signal Box is a building from 1873 and a working museum which gives an insight into the life of a railway signalman. As well as the main attraction, the site has visitor centres containing a miniature signalbox where working demonstrations are run most open days, along with restored artefacts, photographs and information about the history of the restoration. There are also picnic and garden areas. There are modest charges to enter the site, the funds from which are used to continue with our restoration projects. The site is accessible by wheelchair, although the working floor of the signalbox can only be accessed by climbing the authentic steps. However, a CCTV link has been established linking the box to the pavilion for wheelchair users and visitors who are not confident using stairs.

Location
Romsey Signal Box, Brick Lane, Romsey, Hampshire, SO51 8LG, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Museum
Royal Deeside Railway

Royal Deeside Railway

Kincardineshire,

The original Deeside Railway opened on 8th September 1853 and reached Ballater some 13 years later. It amalgamated with the Great North of Scotland Railway in 1876. The line was regularly patronised by the Royal Family and other visitors to Balmoral Castle until it closed in 1966 as a result of the notorious Beeching Report. Thirty years later, the Royal Deeside Railway Preservation Society was formed and the work of restoring part of the line commenced in 2003. We now have about a mile of track in passenger service and are gradually extending the line along the original trackbed until we reach Banchory, which will give us a running line of just over 2 miles.

Location
Milton of Crathes, Banchory, Kincardineshire, AB31 5QH, GB
Distance
Railway Type
Standard Gauge Railway
Phone
01330 844 416